The prospects for a change of government in Germany this year are high. Although one cannot predict a CDU/CSU victory with absolute certainty, it is likely that the country – following approval by the German President and the Constitutional Court – will hold early national elections on September 18, 2005. More than 75% of the German people favor holding these elections, especially because of the high rate of unemployment and low rate of economic growth. Current polls show a 43%-27% lead for the CDU/CSU vis-à-vis the ruling SPD party of Chancellor Schröder. When one adds the expected 6%-8% vote for the Free Democrats, a potential center-right majority exists. However, the formation of a new left-wing splinter party led by former SPD-chairman Oskar Lafontaine might complicate the results somewhat. Polls give it 11%, but the party’s actual percentage of votes probably would be less given its lack of a realistic program, though it will attract many alienated and dissatisfied voters – especially in eastern Germany.